When one thinks of hiking in Lakeside, likely the first trail that comes to mind is the sweat-inducing, cardio-killer El Cajon Mountain trail, one of the toughest trails in all of San Diego county. El Cajon Mountain serves a good purpose for anyone looking for a grueling workout, and some even use the trail to train for tougher, longer feats such as Half Dome in Yosemite National Park or Mount Whitney. We aren’t here to talk about El Cajon Mountain though, that was detailed in a previous post . We are here to talk about the trail found right across the street that is often overlooked, the OakOasis Preserve Trail.
OakOasis Preserve is found directly across the street from El Capitan Preserve, off Wildcat Canyon Road in Lakeside. The preserve features close to 400 acres of chaparral, manzanita, and woodlands. It also provides hikers a spectacular view of the San Vicente Reservoir.
Eventually the trails here will be part of the future Trans-County Trail system, which is planned to extend from Torrey Pines State Reserve to Anza-Borrego Desert. For now, the main trail found here is the OakOasis Preserve Trail, a 2.7-mile loop trail ideal for hikers of all ages for its sights and minimal elevation gain.
From the parking lot, you’ll find the trailhead near the wooden informational kiosk. Follow the trail until you quickly reach a “T” intersection. To your right, the trail will take you to El Capitan Open Space, which would be a rude awakening for those looking for a leisurely stroll with epic views. Instead, turn left, and continue to follow the OakOasis Preserve Trail.
For the 0.5 miles, the trail is fairly straightforward with the exception of two “Y” junctions. Both will be marked for the Trans Coastal Trail, which as we mentioned earlier will be part of a much longer trail system. Continue right at both junctions following the sign for “Trail” to stay on the correct path.
At about 0.5 miles the path will split. We took the trail to the left; however, you can take either way to complete the loop. By taking the trail to the left, you will add on some elevation gain if you’re looking for a slightly more strenuous path. Right will be easier and minimal elevation gain, if that helps you make your decision.
A little over a mile into your hike, the main point of interest on the trail will come into focus, the San Vicente Reservoir. Among other nearby hiking trails, I find the OakOasis Preserve Trail has superior views of the San Vicente Reservoir compared to others. The best views of the reservoir, however, can be found off the main trail. You’ll instead want to take the scenic overlook spur trail until it ends at a rocky overlook.
From the overlook continue to follow the main trail, as it begins to ascend uphill. This will be the most difficult part of the trail, but the switchbacks make the uphill trek more manageable and doable for all fitness levels. After the trail begins to level out in elevation, you’ll once again be immersed in a grove of oaks.
Throughout the entirety of your hike you may notice the trunks of the oaks you pass by are charred. This is a result of the devastating 2003 Cedar Fire, still showcasing its destruction over a decade later. Luckily, most of the oaks survived the fire, and have since grown back over the years, leaving only their trunks as evidence.
At 1.35 miles, you’ll enter a meadow and will soon pass by a sign that reads “Half way point”. From here on out the trail is very straightforward, following any signs you encounter towards the parking area. At 2.4 miles, you’ll close the loop and join the original trail, following it back to your car.
Driving Directions
From downtown San Diego, take CA-163N. In 3.1 miles, use the right two lanes to take exit 3A to merge onto I-8 toward El Centro. In 12.9 miles, keep right at the fork to continue on CA-67 N/State 67 N. Keep right, follow signs for Mapleview St. Take a slight right onto Mapleview St. In 0.3 miles, turn left onto Ashwood Street.
Continue onto Wildcat Canyon Rd. In 3.3 miles, turn left onto Oak Oasis Rd, you’ll also see a large sign for the Oakoasis Preserve. Follow the dirt road until you reach the parking area, where you’ll find the trailhead.
Elevation Gain : 400 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes
Difficulty: Easy
Total Distance: 2.7-miles
Trailhead Address: 12620 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040
